Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue Religious Site

Address: Recife Antigo, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil (exact address varies)

Hours: Typically open to visitors outside prayer times; hours vary locally

Admission: Free (entry may be restricted during services)

Kahal Zur Israel is a 17th-century synagogue site in Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil, founded in 1636 during the Dutch occupation and recognized as the earliest synagogue established in the Americas.

The place combines a restored synagogue footprint with archaeological remains and museum displays that interpret the former Jewish community and colonial-era Recife. Exhibits typically show period artifacts, interpretations of the congregation’s ritual life, and information about the Dutch-era Jewish presence.

The congregation was established by Sephardic Jews under Dutch rule in the mid-17th century and ceased to function as a synagogue after the Portuguese reconquest of Recife in 1654. The site was later identified and conserved as a historical and archaeological landmark.

The synagogue and museum are located in Recife Antigo, the historic district of Recife, within Pernambuco state; it lies among other colonial-era buildings and cultural attractions in the city centre.

• Founding date and significance: Founded during the Dutch period of Pernambuco, the congregation dates to 1636 and is widely regarded as the earliest synagogue established in what is now the Americas.
• Location and visiting context: The site is in Recife Antigo, Recife’s historic district, and is best visited as part of wider walking routes through the colonial centre and nearby museums.

What to See#

• Synagogue and archaeological site: A restored 17th-century synagogue site that includes preserved archaeological remains and interpretive displays documenting the Dutch-period Jewish community of Recife.
• Museum and exhibits: A small museum and exhibition space that presents artifacts, documents and reproductions related to the congregation founded in the 17th century.

The synagogue is in Recife Antigo, the old quarter of Recife. It is easily reached on foot from Praça do Marco Zero or by taxi from central Recife. Walks through the historic district connect the synagogue with other colonial landmarks.

• Visit outside synagogue service times to view the building and its small museum more calmly.
• Combine a visit with a walk through Recife Antigo to place the synagogue in the context of the city's colonial-era streets.